Acids and Bases

Front

What is an acid?

Back

An acid is a substance that donates protons (H+) in a chemical reaction. Acids typically have a sour taste and can turn blue litmus paper red. Examples include lemon juice and vinegar.

Front

What is a base?

Back

A base is a substance that accepts protons (H+) or donates hydroxide ions (OH-) in a chemical reaction. Bases usually have a bitter taste and can turn red litmus paper blue. Examples include baking soda and dish soap.

Front

What is the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is basic.

Front

What are strong acids?

Back

Strong acids are acids that completely dissociate in water, releasing all their protons. Examples include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4).

Front

What are strong bases?

Back

Strong bases are bases that completely dissociate in water, releasing hydroxide ions. Examples include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH).

Front

What is a neutralization reaction?

Back

A neutralization reaction is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base that produces water and a salt.

Front

What is an example of a common household acid?

Back

Vinegar is a common household acid, primarily composed of acetic acid.

Front

What is an example of a common household base?

Back

Baking soda is a common household base, primarily composed of sodium bicarbonate.

Front

What is the taste of acids?

Back

Acids typically taste sour.

Front

What is the taste of bases?

Back

Bases typically taste bitter.